Journalism of peace?

Journalism of peace?

From Media Indonesia

The polemic about the broadcasting bill had not slackened when the mass media raised the issue of "journalism of peace" for conflict areas in the country. There is no guarantee yet that this type of journalism will be beneficial to national and international communities.

The question arises as to whether the issue is not opposed to the state policy guidelines on communications stipulated in 1999, which read: "To enhance the role of a free press in line with the quality and welfare of journalists so that they become professional, maintain their integrity and uphold press ethics, the supremacy of the law and human rights."

It is also to be questioned whether the issue is connected with universal press freedom, which underlines "the freedom to seek, receive and disseminate information and ideas by any means of conveyance (print and electronic media) regardless of country borders".

In restive regions like Aceh, Ambon and Papua, it is difficult for the press to present reports and articles only with "peaceful" content for the belligerents concerned. Is balanced information meant to create a, appeasing atmosphere for the people affected by conflicts?

What about the role of the press to give a voice to people in conflict areas, so they can speak to outsiders both at home and abroad? Therefore, ideas about the press should be wisely and cautiously put forward, so they are acceptable to the common sense of readers, listeners and viewers.

SUNGKOWO SOKAWERA

Bandung